WWE SmackDown Vs Raw PS2: Character Roster Revealed!

Hey wrestling fans! Ready to dive back into the nostalgic world of WWE SmackDown vs Raw on the PlayStation 2? One of the biggest draws of these classic games was the massive roster of superstars you could control. Whether you were a fan of the ruthless aggression era or the legendary icons of the past, there was someone for everyone. So, let's get ready to rumble as we explore the character roster that made SmackDown vs Raw on the PS2 so unforgettable!

Main Roster Highlights

The SmackDown vs Raw series was known for its impressive selection of WWE superstars, and the PS2 editions were no exception. You could step into the shoes of some of the biggest names in the industry at the time. Let's check out some of the main highlights:

• John Cena: The face that runs the place, Cena was a staple of the roster. His signature moves and never-give-up attitude made him a fan favorite in the game, just as in real life. Imagine hitting that Five Knuckle Shuffle and then the Attitude Adjustment to secure the win. Cena's inclusion was a must, reflecting his prominent role in WWE during that era. He was always a top pick for players looking to dominate in the game. His character model was incredibly detailed, capturing his muscular physique and iconic ring gear. Plus, his entrance music always got the crowd pumped up!
• Triple H: The Cerebral Assassin himself, Triple H, brought his intensity and ring generalship to the game. From the Pedigree to his signature spinebuster, playing as Triple H meant you were in for a strategic and hard-hitting match. Triple H’s presence was essential, embodying the ruthless aggression of the era. He was the kind of character you picked when you wanted to show you meant business. His character model reflected his intimidating presence, complete with his signature long hair and intense stare. And who could forget his entrance, complete with the water spitting and the iconic Motorhead theme song? Playing as Triple H meant you were ready to dominate the competition with power and precision.
• The Undertaker: The Deadman was always a fan favorite, and his in-game persona was just as intimidating. Whether you preferred the American Badass or the classic Deadman, The Undertaker brought his signature moves and eerie presence to every match. The inclusion of The Undertaker was crucial, as he represented the mystique and legend that made WWE so captivating. Playing as The Undertaker felt special, with his slow, deliberate movements and devastating finishing moves. His character model was spot-on, capturing his imposing height and haunting gaze. His entrance, complete with the dimmed lights and the gong, sent chills down your spine, making every match feel like a major event.
• Randy Orton: The Viper was slithering his way to the top, and his inclusion in SmackDown vs Raw allowed players to experience his evolving persona. The RKO was always a crowd-pleaser, and Orton’s calculated aggression made him a formidable opponent. Randy Orton’s inclusion was timely, as he was rapidly becoming one of WWE's biggest stars. Playing as Orton allowed you to unleash his viper-like strikes and opportunistic maneuvers. His character model captured his youthful arrogance and growing intensity. And of course, hitting the RKO out of nowhere was one of the most satisfying moments in the game. Orton was a character that allowed you to blend technical skill with raw power, making him a versatile choice for any player.
• Kurt Angle: With his technical prowess and Olympic gold medal, Kurt Angle was a force to be reckoned with. The Angle Slam and Ankle Lock were devastating, and his comedic timing added an extra layer of entertainment to his character. Kurt Angle was a must-have, representing the blend of athleticism and showmanship that defined WWE. Playing as Angle meant you could dominate with technical wrestling and surprising bursts of power. His character model highlighted his muscular build and intense focus. And who could forget his hilarious taunts and mannerisms? Angle brought a unique flavor to the game, making him a favorite for players who appreciated skill and humor.

These are just a few of the many superstars that made the SmackDown vs Raw PS2 games so enjoyable. The diversity of the roster allowed for endless match combinations and storyline possibilities.

ECW and Legend Representation

Beyond the main roster, SmackDown vs Raw on the PS2 often included ECW stars and legendary wrestlers, adding even more depth to the game. This was a huge draw for fans who appreciated the history and diversity of professional wrestling. Here’s a look at some of the notable inclusions:

• ECW Originals: Characters like Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, and The Sandman brought the hardcore style of ECW to the game. These guys were all about extreme rules matches and unpredictable action. The inclusion of ECW wrestlers added a unique flavor to the game, appealing to fans who loved the brutal and chaotic nature of ECW. Playing as these characters meant you were ready to embrace the hardcore lifestyle, utilizing weapons and unconventional tactics to secure victory. Their character models were appropriately gritty and battle-worn, reflecting their hard-hitting style. And the ability to recreate classic ECW moments in the game was a major selling point for many fans.
• Wrestling Legends: The games often featured iconic figures like Bret Hart, Hulk Hogan, and The Rock. These legends allowed players to relive classic matches and experience the magic of wrestling's golden eras. The inclusion of legends was a fantastic way to bridge the gap between different generations of wrestling fans. Playing as these legends allowed you to experience their signature moves and mannerisms, bringing a sense of nostalgia and excitement to the game. Their character models were carefully crafted to resemble their prime years, making them feel like authentic representations of these iconic figures. And the ability to pit these legends against current stars created endless possibilities for dream matches.

The inclusion of these ECW and legendary wrestlers significantly enhanced the SmackDown vs Raw experience, providing a rich and diverse roster that catered to a wide range of wrestling fans.

Hidden Gems and Unlockable Characters

SmackDown vs Raw games on the PS2 were also known for their hidden gems and unlockable characters. Discovering these secrets added an extra layer of excitement to the game, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny. Here are some examples:

• Unlockable Superstars: Some characters required you to complete specific challenges or story mode objectives to unlock them. This added a sense of progression and reward to the gameplay. Unlocking these characters often felt like a significant achievement, giving you a sense of pride and accomplishment. These unlockable superstars often included alternate versions of existing characters or special guests that added to the game's replay value.
• Hidden Attire and Arenas: Certain costumes and arenas were hidden within the game, waiting to be discovered. These secrets often required you to perform specific actions or enter hidden codes. Discovering these hidden items added a sense of mystery and intrigue to the game, encouraging players to experiment and explore. These hidden attires and arenas often included throwbacks to classic wrestling events or unique and quirky designs that added to the game's charm.

The thrill of unlocking these hidden characters and items made the SmackDown vs Raw games even more engaging and memorable. It encouraged players to invest time and effort into the game, knowing that there were secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Create-A-Wrestler: Crafting Your Own Star

One of the most beloved features of the SmackDown vs Raw series was the Create-A-Wrestler mode. This feature allowed players to unleash their creativity and design their own superstars, complete with custom movesets, attires, and backstories. The Create-A-Wrestler mode was a game-changer, providing endless possibilities for personalization and customization. You could create a character that resembled yourself, a fictional hero, or a completely original creation. The level of detail was impressive, allowing you to fine-tune every aspect of your wrestler's appearance and abilities. This feature not only enhanced the replay value of the game but also fostered a sense of community among players who shared their creations online.

Final Thoughts

The character roster in WWE SmackDown vs Raw on the PS2 was a major reason for the game's popularity. The combination of current superstars, ECW legends, and unlockable characters provided a rich and diverse experience that kept players coming back for more. Whether you were a fan of technical wrestling, high-flying action, or hardcore brawls, there was a character for you. So, fire up your PS2, grab your controller, and relive the glory days of wrestling gaming!